Thunder Spurs Pistons Clinch NBA Playoffs, Race Heats Up

Merlin sees the playoff picture finally taking shape. Only three teams have clinched so far — the Thunder, Spurs and Pistons — and several more should lock up spots this week. The West’s No. 1 is almost decided, the Lakers are closing in, and in the East the Pistons sit well placed for the top seed while the Celtics and Jayson Tatum’s return could change the chase. Even the margin for spots is slim, with "the No. 5-seeded Raptors are just three games ahead of the No. 10-seeded Hornets." Merlin notes matchups will matter more than final numbers. Facing OKC or San Antonio is different than drawing a Timberwolves or Nuggets team peaking at the right time. Expect late season swings from Toronto, Atlanta, Charlotte and Miami to reshuffle seeds and set up playoff storylines that will decide who looks confident and who looks vulnerable.